Former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns defender Kwanda Mngonyama is closing in on a move to newly promoted Zimbabwean side, Hardrock FC, who are busy in the market assembling a strong side.
Hardrock FC, freshly promoted to Zimbabwe’s top-flight, are building a mean machine for the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season, which is set to kick-off in March.
Under the ownership of Shepherd Chahwanda, Hardrock FC view the signing of Mngonyama as a vital move, identifying him as the ideal embodiment of both leadership and veteran experience for the squad.
Mngonyama brings vast experience, having played many years in the Betway Premiership for clubs such as Maritzburg United, AmaZulu FC, Sundowns, Moroka Swallows and Pirates.
TALKS AT AN ADVANCED STAGE
The 32-year-old former Bafana Bafana international is currently on the books of Bahrain second-tier club Al-Ettihad Club on a six-month contract. Talks are currently ongoing for him to switch to Zimbabwe, and FARPost has it on good authority that they are at an advanced stage, and a decision will be revealed early in January.
Hardrock FC were promoted after winning the 2025 ZIFA Central Region Division One title last season, and now they’re going all out to make a splash in the top-flight.
Mngonyama spent last season in AmaZulu FC‘s books, but did not earn a contract renewal at the end of the 2024/25 Betway Premiership campaign.
Mngonyama reportedly tried his luck at Siwelele FC before receiving a call-up to represent South Africa at the 2025 CHAN tournament that was co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. And that was his lifeline, as he went on to play a key role for the national side during the competition.
And after putting in solid performances, he attracted interest beyond South Africa’s borders, with Bahrain’s second-tier club emerging as his new home.
Meanwhile, his suitors, Hardrock FC, appointed Zambian coach Kelvin Kaindu as their head coach for the 2026 season.
Additionally, they will start their season with a date against the title holders, Scottland FC, home to Knowledge Musona and Khama Billiat.
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